remembrance day, poppy, poppies-3811394.jpg

This Remembrance Day Veterans Are Being Encouraged To Get Support For Their Mental Health

by AnxietyConfidenceCorporate Wellness ProgrammeMental Health At Workmental health at work SheffieldMental Health First Aid TrainingMHFAStress Managementstress management SheffieldSuicidewellbeing in the workplace Sheffieldworkplace mental health Sheffieldworkplace wellbeing Sheffield

 

Addressing the Invisible Wounds of Combat through Innovative Approaches

The mental health crisis among veterans, particularly those who have experienced combat, is a growing concern that demands urgent attention. A staggering report from a recent JAMA Neurology study reveals a more than 10-fold increase in suicide rates among U.S. veterans from 2006 to 2020, underscoring the inadequacy of current treatment strategies.

In the U.K., the situation is similarly alarming. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains a prevalent issue among veterans. Statistics show a significant number of these brave individuals have PTSD, a condition often exacerbated by their experiences in combat. The National Health Service (NHS) strives to provide support, yet the complexity of mental health challenges in veterans calls for a multi-faceted approach.

As someone who has worked closely with veterans, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact of combat on mental health. Some challenges they face are the memories of lost comrades, the strain on personal and professional relationships, and the struggle to reintegrate into civilian life. My approach involves talking therapies, which have proven beneficial in managing these difficult memories and experiences. These therapies are not just about coping with past traumas; they’re about rebuilding a life with new strategies for wellbeing.

The Benefits of Self-Care in Veteran Mental Health:

  • Meditation: Enhances resilience by developing the ability to cope with stress and recover from adversity. Regular meditation practice leads to mental flexibility and a healthier stress response.
  • Gratitude Exercises: Strengthens relationships by fostering a positive outlook that enhances empathy and deepens connections with others.
  • Counselling or Talking Therapies: Improves self-esteem by providing safe spaces for self-exploration, leading to greater self-awareness and confidence.
  • Talking to Friends and Family: Boosts physical health by providing emotional support and reducing feelings of isolation, which can positively impact physical wellbeing.
  • Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices help in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression, contributing to overall emotional wellbeing and mental health stability.

Self-care strategies like meditation, mindfulness, and expressing gratitude daily have shown remarkable results.

They are encouraging veterans to maintain open communication with trusted friends and family members, which further aids in their mental health journey. The Armed Forces Covenant in the U.K. reinforces this need, ensuring that the armed forces community receives the same standard of healthcare as any other citizen. Information leaflets published by the MOD offer guidance on how veterans can access these services.

The Mental Health Foundation highlights that depression, anxiety, and alcohol problems are common among personnel and veterans, in addition to PTSD. Recent studies, such as those conducted by the King’s Centre for Military Health Research (KCMHR), suggest an increasing trend in help-seeking behaviour, especially among women.

Innovative perspectives like the brain energy theory of mental illness provide new hope. This theory offers a different understanding of mental health issues, potentially leading to more effective treatments.

Our collective responsibility is to ensure our veterans receive the care and support they deserve. We can significantly improve our veterans’ mental health and wellbeing by integrating traditional medical approaches with holistic self-care practices and new scientific insights.

Contact Information for Support:

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Let’s work together to support our veterans in their journey towards healing and resilience.

Black History Month

Mental Health Inequalities within the UK’s Black Communities

by Mental Health First Aid TrainingMHFASuicideworkplace mental health Sheffieldworkplace wellbeing Sheffield

Challenges and the Path Forward

In honour of Black History Month, it’s pivotal that we draw attention to the critical issue of mental health inequalities experienced by Black communities within the UK. Despite advancements in mental health awareness and treatment, members of the Black communities, particularly those from African Caribbean backgrounds, continue to face distinctive challenges. A closer look reveals a multifaceted interplay of societal, cultural, and systemic factors contributing to these disparities.

Challenges and Inequalities

Research, including studies by Khan et al. (2017), indicates that individuals from African Caribbean communities in the UK have higher incidences of post-traumatic stress disorder, elevated suicide risk and are more likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia. These startling statistics signify more profound, underlying challenges:

  1. Societal and Cultural Misunderstandings: The perception of a lack of cultural sensitivity among mental health professionals can lead to mistrust and reluctance in seeking help.
  2. Stigmatisation within Communities: Portraying mental health issues as personal failures or weaknesses can lead to enduring silence instead of seeking support.
  3. Institutional Barriers: Misdiagnoses and underdiagnoses underscore Black individuals’ obstacles in accessing adequate care.

Barriers to Support

The barriers stem from mistrust in healthcare systems due to historical and ongoing prejudices and discriminatory practices, discouraging Black individuals from seeking help. Those seeking help might encounter a lack of culturally competent professionals, risking misdiagnoses and inappropriate treatments.

The Ripple Effect of Stigma

Stigma perpetuates a vicious cycle: reduced dialogue around mental health struggles reinforces misconceptions and stereotypes, further alienating individuals in need from potential support systems.

Charting a Path Forward

Acknowledging and understanding these challenges are the initial steps toward resolving them. Collectively owning these inequalities is imperative to dismantle the associated barriers and stigma. A holistic and inclusive approach to mental health can foster an environment where everyone has equal access to the support they need.

In My Opinion: Changes Needed

  • Cultural Competence Training: Regular and comprehensive training for mental health professionals to ensure understanding and respect for cultural nuances.
  • Community Engagement: Active involvement of communities in shaping mental health services and policies to reflect the needs and preferences of all community members.
  • Awareness Campaigns: Tailored campaigns within Black communities to combat stigma and promote mental health awareness and the necessity of seeking help.
  • Research Investment: Adequate funding and emphasis on research focusing on the mental health of Black communities to ensure fair representation and nuanced understanding.
  • Accessible Services: Streamlining access to mental health services and ensuring they are adequately equipped to address Black communities’ specific needs and concerns.
    In conclusion, acknowledging and addressing mental health inequalities is crucial in paving the way for a society where everyone has equal access to mental health support regardless of background.

As we commemorate Black History Month, let’s also endeavour to create an inclusive, supportive future that acknowledges the mental health needs of Black communities in the UK.

For those committed to delving deeper into these issues and actively addressing them, the Mental Health First Aid England course offers an invaluable platform. Delegates who enrol will be able to explore the inequalities mentioned above in detail. Through group discussions, participants can collaboratively analyse how these disparities could potentially impact the decision-making process for someone contemplating seeking professional support due to personal mental health struggles or experiences of deteriorating mental health.

Understanding these nuances is crucial for mental health professionals and anyone in diverse communities. Awareness and practical strategies can help bridge the gap, ensuring that those facing mental health challenges feel understood, supported, and encouraged to seek the help they need.

For more detailed information about the course and how it can empower you to make a difference, click here.

Mental Health First Aid 2-Day Training Course Ambassador Theatre - Birmingham

Update on the First Aid (Mental Health) Bill: A Balanced View from a Health and Wellbeing Practitioner

by AnxietyMental Health At Workmental health at work SheffieldMental Health First Aid TrainingMHFASuicidewellbeing in the workplace Sheffieldworkplace mental health Sheffieldworkplace wellbeing Sheffield

Since my last commentary in February 2023 regarding the First Aid (Mental Health) Bill introduced by Dean Russell MP, the discourse surrounding its efficacy and applicability has considerably evolved. As someone who has progressed from senior managerial roles to becoming a health and wellbeing consultant and a Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Instructor, I find it imperative to provide a nuanced perspective on the subject.

The Bill’s second reading was initially scheduled for February but is now scheduled for 24 November, after a statement released in April. Several employment bodies, including the Council for Work & Health (CfWH) and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), have called for a more comprehensive approach towards mental health in the workplace, citing that MHFA should be part of a multifaceted intervention strategy. They emphasise that MHFA alone cannot suffice as a solution for workplace mental health issues.

In my earlier career, I was part of what critics term the ‘tick box brigade’, sceptical of how much change standalone interventions like MHFA could affect. I had already undertaken physical first-aid training multiple times across various organisations, recognising its fundamental importance. However, my perspective radically shifted during the lockdown when I decided to broaden my services and undergo MHFA England instructor training.

When I completed the course myself, pondering the advantages of being a physical first aider both professionally and personally, the true potential of MHFA became palpable to me. This personal transformation led me to embrace the role of an MHFA instructor, which I see as complementary to existing initiatives and fundamentally valuable. For example, Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), which I also deliver on behalf of the UK’s largest provider, have an engagement rate within companies as low as 10%. MHFA can bridge this gap by raising awareness and making mental health discussions more routine.

The critiques of MHFA as a single intervention are valid but not strong enough to dismiss the programme outright. These reservations primarily focus on the potential for it to become a ‘tick box exercise,’ with risks to confidentiality and a lack of support for mental health first aiders. While I concur with these concerns, I argue that they also existed before physical first aid became a workplace standard. MHFA, like any intervention, needs to be part of an integrated mental health strategy, but its absence would be a glaring omission.

As we look towards the future, it’s clear that doing nothing isn’t an option. MHFA should be seen not as an end but as an essential component in a broad spectrum of interventions aimed at fostering a mentally healthier, more compassionate work environment. In my own practice, the dual roles of a health and wellbeing consultant and an MHFA instructor enable me to bring a balanced, lived experience to the table.

This Bill should prompt further legislation and engagement from all stakeholders in defining what mental health support in the workplace should look like. The key is to strike a balance, drawing from various perspectives and solutions—my journey and professional transition are a testament to the potential for evolution in this critical dialogue.

I eagerly await the second reading of the First Aid (Mental Health) Bill and the consequential discussions that are bound to follow as the UK attempts to tackle the escalating mental health crisis that confronts us all.

318F28A8-8ECF-49C5-B2ED-6178D2336510_1_105_c

A Leap of Faith Skydiving for the Mental Health Foundation

by AnxietyConfidenceDepressionemployee mental health SheffieldHealth and WellbeingMental Health At Workmental health at work SheffieldMental Health First Aid TrainingMHFAStressstress help SheffieldStress Managementstress relief SheffieldSuicidewellbeing in the workplace Sheffieldworkplace mental health Sheffieldworkplace wellbeing Sheffield

Though not necessarily brave, I’ve always considered myself an adventurer at heart. Maybe a bit daft, even. In my work as a mental health first aid instructor and a private practice consultant, I see people who grapple with social anxiety, stress, and depression.

I often preach the gospel of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. But hey, it’s easier said than done, right?

Inspired by our ancestors who braved saber-tooth tigers and trekked miles for food, I took the plunge for the Mental Health Foundation. But this leap was more than just a tick off my bucket list; it was deeply personal. Last year, I had a pituitary tumour removed. That intense experience made me reevaluate my priorities; ever since then, self-care has been at the top of my list.

Now, back to the plane. My instructor, Josh, was a pro. His pre-jump brief was as exciting as listening to a speech by Rishi Sunak, which oddly calmed my nerves. “Place your hands across your chest, wrap your legs around the underside of the plane, and head back,” he advised as if telling me how to tie my shoes.

The plane taxied down a short runway under a cloudless sky. Perfect weather—unlike the cancelled jump a few weeks prior due to bad visibility. We reached an altitude of 14,000ft, and I found myself afloat among skydiving aficionados and charity-driven daredevils like myself.

Josh handed me goggles so tight they made me look like a cartoon character whose eyes might pop out at any moment. Then, the plane’s door opened, and for a fleeting moment, I imagined myself getting sucked out like in a bad action movie.

One by one, people took their leaps. I mimicked a mantra in my head, “Hands across the chest, feet under the plane, head up, wait for the tap, then Superman.” Finally, it was my turn.

As I inched closer to the edge, my brain screamed, “What the bleep are you doing, Mike?!” But before I could complete that thought, gravity took over. I was tumbling through the air, screaming, but also oddly liberated.

Josh gave me the much-anticipated tap. I thrust my arms forward, miming Superman, grinning like a madman. And just like that, the sheer terror transformed into an adrenaline-fueled euphoria.

As we descended, Josh handed me the parachute controls. “What happens if you let go?” a devilish voice in my head wondered. Ignoring it, I swivelled left and right, marvelling at the beauty below.
Eventually, Josh guided us toward the landing zone. “Legs to the chest, then out in front,” he instructed. And we landed like pros—or rather, he did; I was just along for the ride.

“What was it like?” the cameraman asked. “Absolutely insane!” I blurted out, my heart still racing.

This was not just a thrill-seeker’s dream but a defining moment that combined personal growth, healing, and advocacy for a cause I deeply believe in mental health. Skydiving was a literal and metaphorical fall into a new understanding of life and resilience, a perfect symbol of my journey from a patient to the pinnacle of self-care.

Thanks to this experience, I’m even more committed to championing mental health. I took a leap for myself and everyone who has been where I was. So, let’s soar to new heights together in our collective fight for better mental health.

Would you like to help, too? Please spread the word, donate, and let’s make a difference. Because sometimes, a leap of faith is what it takes to move mountains.

Mangosteen Group Photo

My Personal Path to Wellbeing at Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort

by AnxietyConfidenceemployee mental health SheffieldHealth and WellbeingLife coach in Sheffieldlife coach SheffieldLife Coachinglife coaching Sheffieldmental health at work SheffieldMental Health First Aid TrainingMHFAstress help SheffieldStress Managementstress relief SheffieldSuicideworkplace mental health Sheffieldworkplace wellbeing Sheffield

The Rejuvenation Journey

Introduction

Life’s challenges had recently consumed me. A pituitary tumour diagnosis, months of recovery, and the mounting pressure of returning to work left me in dire need of a sanctuary. That sanctuary? The Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort in Phuket, Thailand.

A Unique Retreat: Mangosteen Ayurveda & Wellness Resort Authentic Ayurveda in Thailand

Mangosteen is more than a resort; it’s a haven for those seeking genuine Ayurvedic healing, with professionals trained to an impeccable standard.

Choosing the AyurYoga Panchakarma 7-night Retreat

Why I Chose Panchakarma

After my health challenges, I sought a programme tailored to rejuvenate me, and Panchakarma seemed just right. The retreat’s offerings, from personalised treatments to nourishing Ayurvedic cuisine, promise holistic healing.

My Treatment Programme

Over seven days, I underwent various treatments, from Abhyanga massages to detoxifying procedures.

Personal Reflections: More Than Just Treatments

Each day brought a fresh wave of relaxation, energy, and rejuvenation. I felt my stresses melt away, replaced with newfound vigour. While I expected peace, the profound sense of refreshment was a delightful surprise.

Ayurvedic Doctor

During the final consultation, my Ayurvedic doctor remarked at the end of my programme, “You’ve lost 5kgs, but beyond that, your energy seems more balanced, more harmonious.” It wasn’t just about weight but the transformation inside and out.

Educational Insights into Ayurveda

With roots in ancient India, Ayurveda is more than a medical system; it’s a way of life. Centred on the ‘doshas’ or bodily humour, Ayurveda teaches balance. I was intrigued to learn more about the benefits of the oils and treatments; therefore, My Ayurvedic doctor introduced me to the “Textbook of Ayurveda: Volume 1 – Fundamental Principles of Ayurveda” by Dr Vasant Lad, a foundational text. Additionally, I was given the Ashwagandha supplement, known for its rejuvenating properties.

Beyond Treatment: Life in Phuket

From ethical elephant sanctuaries to rigorous Muay Thai training sessions and a speed boat trip over to PHI PHI Islands, Phuket offered both relaxation and adventure.

Testimonials from the Resort Owners

Hajo, one of the resort owners, told me, “Your journey, from where you started to where you’ve reached, truly resonates with Mangosteen’s ethos of holistic healing. We’re delighted to have been a part of it.”

Call to Action: Your Path to Healing

Consider your wellbeing. It’s time you treat yourself through a wellness retreat or simple moments of self-care in your daily routine.

Conclusion

My journey at Mangosteen was a lesson in the importance of self-care. Not only did I find physical rejuvenation, but I also discovered the strength within to tackle life’s challenges head-on.

IMG_6655

Reflecting on the Inaugural Launch of the #BatonOfHopeUK

by Mental Health At WorkMHFASuicidewellbeing in the workplace Sheffieldworkplace mental health Sheffieldworkplace wellbeing Sheffield

Introduction

Friday, 2nd June, marked a significant milestone as I had the privilege of attending the inaugural launch of the #BatonOfHopeUK. This extraordinary event aimed to raise awareness of suicide nationwide, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. Hosted at the illustrious Intercontinental Hotel in London, the evening featured a black-tie 3-course dinner, esteemed guest speakers, a charity auction, captivating music, and an atmosphere filled with the joy of dancing.

A Night to Remember

As I stepped into the Intercontinental Hotel, I was immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of anticipation and a shared commitment to a cause close to our hearts. The exquisite black-tie dinner was a delightful feast for the senses, with every dish carefully crafted to perfection, showcasing the organisers’ attention to detail and dedication.

Inspiring Voices

One of the many highlights of the evening was the presence of remarkable guest speakers who shared their stories, insights, and heartfelt messages. Their words resonated deeply, a powerful reminder of the importance of raising awareness about suicide. The bravery and vulnerability displayed by these individuals were truly inspiring, igniting a fire within all attendees to contribute towards creating a society that supports and uplifts those in need.

A Bid for Hope

The charity auction was an exhilarating experience, as bidders vied for unique items, all in the spirit of supporting the #BatonOfHopeUK. The energy in the room was palpable as each bid represented a step forward in the collective fight against suicide. Witnessing the generosity and commitment of the attendees was a humbling reminder of the strength of the community and the impact we can make when we come together for a common cause.

Dancing for a Cause

The evening reached its crescendo as the dance floor came alive with infectious energy and enthusiasm. It was a joyous celebration of life and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The sight of people from different walks of life moving in harmony served as a poignant reminder that unity and solidarity are key in tackling the issue of suicide.

The Baton of Hope Campaign

The #BatonOfHopeUK was born out of the shared grief of Mike McCarthy and Steve Phillip, fathers who tragically lost their sons, Ross and Jordan, to suicide. Their friendship and determination to make a difference led them to become persuasive advocates for change in UK suicide prevention policy. They met with the Rt. Hon. Sajid Javid MP, then Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, to share their knowledge and lived experience.

In June 2022, Mr. Javid delivered a keynote speech at the headquarters of the suicide prevention charity PAPYRUS, emphasizing the importance of providing better and more targeted support to those at risk of suicide. He acknowledged the need for a new and ambitious long-term plan for suicide prevention.

Mike and Steve secured Mr. Javid’s endorsement and support for their Baton of Hope campaign, which was announced on BBC Breakfast the following day. The Baton tour aims to raise awareness across the country, and Sheffield is one of the cities on its route. With its beautiful greenspaces, abundant trees, and forward-thinking approach to technology, Sheffield offers a unique and meaningful backdrop for the Baton’s journey.

The Baton in Sheffield

Sheffield, known for its vibrant culture and scenic landscapes, holds a special place in the Baton of Hope tour. As the Baton walks through the city, it highlights Sheffield’s commitment to promoting mental health and preventing suicide. With five rivers, 800 managed greenspaces, and more trees per person than any other European city, Sheffield provides a delightful environment for the Baton’s journey. In line with the city’s focus on technology and sustainability, one stretch of the tour will be carried out in an electric vehicle, symbolizing Sheffield’s dedication to the future.

In Summary

Attending the inaugural launch of the #BatonOfHopeUK was an evening filled with inspiration, purpose and a shared commitment to combating the issue of suicide. The event provided a platform for remarkable guest speakers and a spirited charity auction and highlighted the dedication of individuals like Mike McCarthy and Steve Phillip. Their vision, alongside the support of influential figures like Mr Javid, shapes the Baton of Hope campaign as it travels through cities like Sheffield, leaving a trail of awareness and hope in its wake.

Resources for Support:

In times of need, it’s essential to reach out for support. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please consider contacting the following helpline services:

Samaritans:

Call 116 123

CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)

Call 0800 585858

Text ‘SHOUT’

to 85258

PAPYRUS (Prevention of Young Suicide)

Call 0800 068 4141

Remember, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Reach out for help, and together we can make a difference. If you prefer to contact me directly, feel free to contact me at 0114 670 081 or via email at hello@mikelawrence.co.uk.